LEGO launches retro typewriter with actual working keys
Get ready to add a bit of nostalgia to your home office with LEGO’s retro-styled typewriter.
The brick toy company has launched a 2,079-piece model of the nostalgic pre-computer office staple complete with actual moving keys and a carriage where paper can be rolled.
The newly launched set, aimed at adult builders (aged 18+), was inspired by an idea from British LEGO fan Steve Guinness.
The builder submitted his concept to the LEGO Ideas platform, which takes new designs dreamed up by fans, puts them to a public vote and turns them into reality. Guinness' winning concept, which won more than 10,000 votes, will also see him receive a share of the profits from sales.
Spark nostalgia with this LEGO replica of an old-fashioned typewriter ? https://t.co/6PhehRihEo pic.twitter.com/ZJd31lbAUp
— LEGO (@LEGO_Group) June 9, 2021
The model Typewriter 21327 is designed to mirror the function, style and size of old-fashioned typewriters. The classic mint green set inspired by 1950s-style typewriters features a center typebar that rises each time a key is pressed. This links to the carriage, which actually moves from left to write across as you "type."
Every key features a printed character while a black and red ink spool ribbon adds a new fabric element to the set, a first for LEGO.
And while this typewriter can’t actually print any letters, it features a brick-built platen roller into which real paper can be fed.
When built, the typewriter set makes an amazing display item and conversation piece, adding a vintage touch to any home office space. Even if you've never built a LEGO set in your life, this will definitely appeal to those inspired by writing and classic design.
In a statement released by LEGO, Guiness explained: "I wanted to create something totally different from anything that LEGO has ever done before and showcase that you really can make anything out of LEGO.”
"I bought a vintage typewriter for my research and then played around with bricks and the mechanism until I was happy with the design. I hope it will bring nostalgia to adult fans like me, and wonder and curiosity to younger fans who might not have ever seen a real typewriter!" he added.
"For many, the escape from the connected world to the simplicity of the typewriter is a similar experience to the mindful process of building with LEGO bricks," said Federico Begher, vice-president of global marketing at the LEGO Group in the same statement.
"Here, we have a LEGO set that combines these two worlds seamlessly and like its real-life counterparts, is something LEGO fans will be proud to display in their homes."
The LEGO typewriter is priced at $199.99 (roughly Php 9,536+). The set goes on sale for members of the brand's VIP site (for 1300 points) on June 16 and will be released to the public in July.
(Images via LEGO)